Howard County’s Telephone Survey Highlights State of Our Health

The Howard County Health Department and partners Horizon Foundation, Howard County General Hospital and Columbia Association have announced the results of the 2016 Howard County Health Assessment Survey (HCHAS). This biennial survey is a comprehensive study to assess health-related behaviors among the adult population of Howard County. During the spring and summer of 2016, calls were made to landlines and cellular phones and were conducted in both English and Spanish languages. More than 2,000 Howard County residents participated in the survey.

Results indicated Howard County’s generally healthy status when compared to the rest of the state; however, significant challenges endure, specifically concerning healthy weight levels. While the number of residents at a healthy weight dropped 4 percent, the number of overweight residents increased 4 percent. Twenty-two percent of our county also continues to struggle with obesity. These findings show that, while we are relatively healthy when compared with other communities, opportunities remain in our pursuit of healthier weights among our residents.

The survey also identified a trend in which fewer residents are seeking primary care in provider’s offices and more are visiting urgent care centers.

“This survey again provides a powerful roadmap so we are able to continue to direct our resources and target our energies where we know they are being utilized most effectively,” said Howard County Health Officer Dr. Maura J. Rossman.

“We understand that persistent public health challenges require persistent solutions, and we look forward to working closely with partners to continue to move the needle so that all members of our community can live long, healthy lives,” added Nikki Highsmith Vernick, president and CEO of the Horizon Foundation.

While healthy weight challenges continue across the county, the survey highlighted several bright spots in our community’s health. High levels of insurance coverage within the county have remained since 2012, with 95 percent of residents having some form of health care coverage. There has been a slight reduction in the percentage of residents with diabetes, high cholesterol and amongst current smokers. There has also been a 5 percent reduction in the number of residents who are purchasing sugar-sweetened beverages to drink in the home. The survey shows that residents continue to face high unhealthy weight levels, with 60 percent of people either overweight or obese. However, reduced levels of soda consumption signal early indications of possible future progress.

The 2016 HCHAS provides detailed information about the varying health needs and behaviors across different demographic groups in the county. The data from the 2012, 2014, and 2016 surveys have provided health trends that have been used to assist in setting priorities and identifying programs, initiatives and other methods to address disparities and create positive health changes in the county and will be repeated again in 2018.

To learn more about the survey and see the complete report and fact sheets, visit the new Howard County Health Assessment Survey website at www.howardcountyhealthsurvey.com.

Photo Credit: CDC, Debora Cartagena.